KISD Education Foundation awards record number of classroom grants

The Keller ISD Education Foundation is upping its game in supporting district educators.

On Jan. 7 and 9, foundation officials awarded a record number of classroom grants. Some 31 grants totaling $46,243 were awarded over the two days. Last year the non-profit group gave $35,000 in grants through its “Prize Patrol.”

“We really want to expand our dedication to teachers, and we’re able to do that as we get more and more community support,” said D’Lee Marshall, the foundation’s executive director.

Teachers, counselors, librarians and nurses were eligible. About 200 grant proposals were submitted, an increase of more than 40 percent from 2012-13.

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Approved grants included science and materials for elementary schools, anti-bullying programs at a few middle schools and dyslexia resources for elementary and high school students.

“It’s about innovative thinking and supporting those teachers who want to go the extra mile,” Marshall said. “We all remember teachers who used their own special ways of teaching, and that’s what we want to encourage.”

The Keller ISD Education Foundation hosted a grant writing workshop, bringing in experts to help teachers formulate winning proposals. Officials also worked with the district’s technology department to make the application process easier.

Marshall said the foundation will continue to fund grants throughout the school year as donations come in and as officials find other funding sources.

“It’s a true partnership,” she said. “This is not just the education foundation; it’s the community, businesses, school district and foundation working together.”